Throughout the strain of the semester, it may be hard to put ourselves first. During such a stressful time we may get caught up in worry, become too busy with schoolwork, or feel down throughout the day. However, mental health is extremely important. It includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with situations.
Mental health also determines how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Considering this, here are some helpful tips that can be used to boost your mood when stressed or feeling down.
The first tip that may help you improve your mood is to exercise. Exercise has a significant impact on your mental health as well as our physical health. According to HelpGuide, a nonprofit dedicated to offering mental health tips, exercise releases endorphins in the brain and helps to relax muscles and relieve tension in the body. Since the body and mind are so intertwined, when your body feels better, your mind will too,
Joseph Kruzeja, a sophomore biology student, said, “My biggest advice when it comes to trying to boost your mood would be to go to the gym, do what makes you happy, and try to have some time for yourself.” This leads to the second suggestion, which is to choose something that makes you happy and to give yourself enough time to enjoy the break.
It could be as simple as reading a book or watching a guilty-pleasure television show to give yourself a break. If it can bring you joy and will give you something to look forward to every day, it is worth doing, even if it feels silly. Anything you can find that makes you happy and relaxed is something worth doing.
Listening to music is another way that you can boost your mood. Based on a 2013 study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, people who start listening to uplifting music could improve their mood and happiness in just two weeks.
Luca Morello, a sophomore marketing and sports communication student, said that one of his favorite songs to put him in a good mood is Rendezvous by Jack Harlow. The songs and genres that will uplift you might be different from anyone else’s; however, that doesn’t make it worse, it just makes it uniquely yours.
Finally, spend time with friends and family. Everyone experiences doubts and insecurities from time to time. Feeling valued and loved by the people you care about is one thing that always seems to help.
Friends and family are always there to commend you on your accomplishments and to remind you of your value through the difficult times. Being surrounded by a supportive network of people can help you build confidence and maintain a healthy self-esteem.
Next time you feel down or stressed, make sure to give these suggestions a try. Morello, gives one last piece of advice when it comes to improving one’s mood, “Just look at yourself in the mirror and try to smile—it can completely change the way you start your day.”
